An accomplished architect with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and a master’s from Columbia University, Yehia designed the Vertical Harvest greenhouses to grow “up” (instead of out). Completed in 2016, the company’s facility in Jackson Hole, WY, was the first vertical greenhouse in North America. The three-story greenhouse sits on just a tenth of an acre but can produce as much food as five acres of traditional farmland. 

Earlier this year, it was announced that Vertical Harvest will bring CEA to Detroit. In partnership with Bedrock, the company will build a 60,000 sq. ft. facility in Detroit’s Milwaukee Junction neighborhood. Slated to open in 2025, the 74-foot-tall farm will use 95% less water than traditional farms and produce around 2.2 million pounds of fresh vegetables and greens year-round. Seventy percent of that produce will stay local, being distributed within 100 miles of Detroit to schools, hospitals, restaurants, and local grocery markets.

A key priority for Yehia and Vertical Harvest is inclusivity. The company strives to create inclusive, customized employment opportunities for people with physical or intellectual disabilities. At the Jackson facility as well as the new Maine and Detroit facilities, 40% of positions will be reserved for people with disabilities and those needing career growth assistance.

Yehia has received national recognition for her work. She was named a CNN Champion of Change, and Vertical Harvest has twice been named a finalist for Fast Company's Best Places to Work for Innovators. Learn more about Vertical Harvest here. 

See photos from the 2024 Distinguished Alumna Award Ceremony >